The Via Stoica Podcast Stoic Quote: Knowing Your Role - Epictetus on Self-Understanding and Balance
The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series
In the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and more, to see how their lessons still guide us today.
In this episode, we reflect on a quote by Epictetus, Handbook (Enchiridion), 37:
“If you take on a role that is beyond your powers, you not only disgrace yourself in that role, but you neglect the role that you were capable of fulfilling.”
Epictetus reminds us to know our limits and live in harmony with our true nature. Trying to play a part that isn’t ours leads to frustration and imbalance. The Stoic lesson here is simple but powerful: fulfillment comes from performing our genuine roles well, not from chasing status or proving ourselves.
In this episode, we explore how to recognize when a role no longer fits, how to realign with what truly matters, and why stepping back can sometimes be an act of wisdom rather than failure.
If you are looking for more Stoic quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.
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